To Thamood We sent their brother Salih saying: 'Worship Allah' But they were two parties in dispute with one another. 45 (Saleh) said: "O people, why do you wish to hasten evil rather than good? Why not ask for God's forgiveness? You may well be forgiven." 46 They said, "We see you and your followers as an evil omen." He replied, "No, your evil omen is with God; the truth is that you are a people being put to the test." 47 There were nine tribes in the city spreading evil without any reform in the land. 48 They said: "Swear to one another in the name of Allah that we shall make a sudden night swoop on Salih and his family and will then tell their heirs that we did not witness the destruction of his family. We are indeed truthful." 49 And they plotted a plot, and We plotted a plot, while they perceived it not. 50 So behold thou how was the end of their plotting: verily We annihilated them and their nation all together. 51 So those are their houses fallen down because they were unjust, most surely there is a sign in this for a people who know. 52 And We saved those who believed and were cautious. 53 We also sent Lot, and recall when he told his people: "Do you commit shameless acts with your eyes open? 54 What, do you approach men lustfully instead of women? No, you are a people that are ignorant.' 55 ۞ The only answer of his people was, "Drive out Lot and his family from the city. They are a people who make themselves out to be pure." 56 But We saved him and his family, except his wife; her We destined to be of those who lagged behind. 57 And We rained down on them a shower (of brimstone): and evil was the shower on those who were admonished (but heeded not)! 58